the key is in

USAGE SUMMARY

"the key is in" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in various contexts to convey the idea that something important or essential is contained within or can be found in a particular place or situation. Example: "The key to a successful career is in your determination and hard work." In this example, "the key is in" is used to emphasize the importance of determination and hard work in achieving success. Another example: "The solution to this problem is in careful planning and effective communication." Here, "the key is in" suggests that careful planning and effective communication are crucial elements in finding a solution to the problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key is in how rocks and their chemistry change with each successive layer.

Science Magazine

The key is in its apps.

The Guardian

But the key is in midfield.

The Guardian - Sport

The key is in the subtitle.

Nature

The key is in understanding employees' expectations.

Harvard Business Review

The key is in the finely shaded character work.

The New York Times - Books

I think the key is in the Arab world.

The New York Times

The key is in how the technology is used.

The New York Times

The key is in the title of the game, people.

The Guardian - Sport

PB: The key is in the word "living".

The Guardian

The key is in how agreeable you are.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the key is in" to clearly pinpoint the most crucial element or aspect within a larger context. It adds emphasis and directs the reader's attention.

Common error

Avoid using "the key is in" in overly simple sentences where the crucial element is already obvious. Overuse can dilute its impact. For example, avoid saying "The key is in having the key" when you can simply say "You need the key."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key is in" functions as a predicative expression, highlighting the location or source of a crucial element or solution. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is used to emphasize where the most important aspect of something resides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key is in" is a versatile and frequently used phrase for emphasizing the most important element or location of a solution. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and can be applied across various contexts, notably in news, media, and scientific writing. While versatile, avoid overuse in simple sentences to retain its impactful clarity. Remember the common error: be concise. Also be aware that viable alternatives such as "the secret lies within" or "the answer rests with" exist. Use this phrase strategically to guide your audience directly to the core of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key element is

Emphasizes a particularly significant element or aspect.

the secret lies within

Focuses on the location of the secret or solution being internal.

the crucial aspect is

Highlights the importance of a particular aspect.

the solution is found within

Highlights that the solution is locatable within a specific scope.

the heart of the issue is

Highlights the central element of a problem.

the answer rests with

Shifts the focus to the entity or person holding the answer.

the important factor is

Focuses on the relevance of the factor for an outcome.

the crux of the matter is

Emphasizes the most important point of a situation.

it hinges on

Implies that the outcome depends on a particular factor.

the essence is

Highlights the fundamental nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "the key is in" in a sentence?

Use "the key is in" to emphasize the most important aspect or element for achieving a specific outcome or understanding a situation. For example, "The key is in the planning."

What phrases are similar to "the key is in"?

Alternatives include "the secret lies within", "the answer rests with", or "the solution is found within".

Is it correct to say "the key is in"?

Yes, "the key is in" is grammatically correct and commonly used to highlight the essential element within a context.

What's the difference between "the key is in" and "the key lies in"?

While both phrases are similar, "the key is in" often implies a more immediate or tangible aspect, whereas "the key lies in" suggests a more abstract or inherent quality. The alternative is "the key lies in".